Indian-Origin Executive Steps Into Key Leadership Role as Apple Eyes Long-Term Growth
In a strategic leadership shift, Apple Inc. has appointed Sabih Khan as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO), effective later this month. Khan, who currently serves as the Senior Vice President of Operations, will succeed Jeff Williams, who plans to retire later this year after a distinguished tenure. The move marks a significant milestone in Apple’s succession planning and signals the company’s continued focus on operational excellence and sustainability.
Who Is Sabih Khan?
Sabih Khan, a veteran Apple executive, was born in Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh, India, in 1966. He later moved to Singapore, where he continued his education before earning dual degrees in Economics and Mechanical Engineering from Tufts University. He also holds a master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in New York.
Before joining Apple in 1995, Khan worked at GE Plastics as an applications development engineer and key account technical leader. Over his nearly 30-year career at Apple, Khan has become a pivotal figure in shaping the company’s global supply chain strategy.
Since 2019, he has served as the Senior Vice President of Operations, overseeing Apple’s planning, procurement, manufacturing, logistics, and product fulfillment functions. He also played a critical role in Apple’s environmental sustainability initiatives, contributing to a 60% reduction in the company’s carbon footprint.
Leadership Transition and Strategic Focus
Apple emphasized that Khan’s promotion is part of a long-term leadership transition plan. Jeff Williams, who has been COO since 2015 and a key player in Apple’s product development and design efforts, will shift his focus to guiding the Apple Watch, health initiatives, and the design team during the transition. The design team will begin reporting directly to CEO Tim Cook later this year as Williams prepares for retirement.
CEO Tim Cook Praises Khan’s Leadership
“Sabih is a brilliant strategist who has been one of the central architects of Apple’s supply chain,” said Apple CEO Tim Cook in a statement. “He has helped pioneer new technologies in advanced manufacturing, overseen the expansion of Apple’s manufacturing footprint in the U.S., and ensured Apple remains agile amid global challenges. His commitment to environmental sustainability has played a key role in advancing our green initiatives.”
A New Era of Operational Innovation
Khan’s appointment comes as Apple continues to expand its focus beyond product innovation to operational resilience, green manufacturing, and health-tech development. His deep experience and global perspective position him well to lead Apple’s next chapter in operational excellence and strategic transformation
